John 12:40
"He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, so that they cannot see with their eyes, and understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them."
He has blinded their eyes
This phrase refers to a divine action where God allows a spiritual blindness to occur. The Greek word for "blinded" is "τυφλόω" (typhloō), which means to obscure or make blind. In the context of John 12:40, this blindness is not merely physical but spiritual, indicating a lack of understanding or perception of divine truth. Historically, this reflects the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy (Isaiah 6:10), where the people's persistent unbelief leads to a judicial hardening by God. This serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of rejecting God's revelation.

and hardened their hearts
The Greek word for "hardened" is "πωρόω" (pōroō), which means to make callous or unfeeling. This hardening of the heart is a spiritual condition where individuals become resistant to God's truth and grace. In the biblical narrative, a hardened heart often leads to a refusal to repent and believe. This phrase echoes the Old Testament accounts, such as Pharaoh's hardened heart in Exodus, illustrating a pattern where persistent unbelief results in divine judgment. It underscores the importance of remaining open and responsive to God's word.

so that they cannot see with their eyes
The inability to "see with their eyes" signifies a lack of spiritual insight or discernment. The Greek word "ὁράω" (horaō) means to see or perceive. In this context, it implies an incapacity to recognize or understand spiritual truths. This blindness is not due to a lack of evidence but a willful rejection of the truth. The historical context of Jesus' ministry shows that despite witnessing miracles and hearing His teachings, many still failed to recognize Him as the Messiah. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of spiritual insensitivity.

and understand with their hearts
The phrase "understand with their hearts" involves the Greek word "νοέω" (noeō), which means to perceive or comprehend. Biblically, the heart is the center of thought, emotion, and will. Understanding with the heart implies a deep, internal grasp of spiritual truths that leads to transformation. The failure to understand is not intellectual but moral and spiritual, highlighting the necessity of a receptive heart to truly comprehend God's message. This reflects the biblical theme that true understanding is a gift from God, requiring humility and openness.

and turn
The word "turn" is translated from the Greek "ἐπιστρέφω" (epistrephō), meaning to turn back or return. In a spiritual sense, it signifies repentance—a turning away from sin and toward God. This turning is essential for salvation and is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. The call to turn is an invitation to change one's mind and direction, aligning with God's will. Historically, the prophets called Israel to turn back to God, and this call is echoed in the New Testament as a fundamental aspect of the gospel message.

and I would heal them
The promise of healing is derived from the Greek word "ἰάομαι" (iaomai), which means to heal or make whole. This healing is not merely physical but encompasses spiritual restoration and salvation. In the biblical context, healing is often associated with forgiveness and reconciliation with God. The historical ministry of Jesus was marked by acts of healing, symbolizing the greater spiritual healing He offers. This phrase assures believers of God's readiness to restore those who turn to Him, emphasizing His grace and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in the Gospel of John, whose teachings and miracles are the focus of the account. In this passage, He is addressing the unbelief of the people.

2. Isaiah the Prophet
The original source of the quotation in John 12:40, which is a reference to Isaiah 6:10. Isaiah was a major prophet in the Old Testament who delivered God's messages to the people of Israel.

3. The Jewish People
The primary audience of Jesus' ministry and the ones whose hearts and eyes are described as being hardened and blinded.

4. Jerusalem
The city where much of Jesus' ministry took place, including His final week leading up to the crucifixion.

5. The Pharisees and Religious Leaders
Often depicted as opposing Jesus, they are representative of those whose hearts were hardened against His message.
Teaching Points
Understanding Spiritual Blindness
Recognize that spiritual blindness is a condition that prevents individuals from perceiving and accepting the truth of the Gospel. It is both a judgment and a consequence of persistent unbelief.

The Sovereignty of God
Acknowledge God's sovereignty in the hardening of hearts. This is a difficult but important doctrine that underscores God's ultimate authority and purpose in salvation history.

The Call to Repentance
Despite the hardening, the call to repentance remains. Believers are encouraged to pray for softened hearts and open eyes, both for themselves and others.

The Role of Prophecy
Understand the fulfillment of prophecy as a testament to the truth of Scripture. The hardening of hearts was foretold and serves as a reminder of God's omniscience.

Hope in Christ
Emphasize that in Christ, there is hope for healing and restoration. The veil of blindness can be lifted through faith in Jesus.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does understanding the context of Isaiah's prophecy help us interpret John 12:40?

2. In what ways can spiritual blindness manifest in our lives today, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does the concept of God's sovereignty in hardening hearts challenge or affirm your understanding of His character?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure our hearts remain open and receptive to God's truth?

5. How can we intercede for those who seem spiritually blind, and what Scriptures can we use to guide our prayers?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Isaiah 6:10
The original prophecy that John 12:40 references, where God commissions Isaiah to deliver a message that will harden the hearts of the people.

Matthew 13:14-15
Jesus quotes Isaiah in explaining why He speaks in parables, highlighting the fulfillment of the prophecy of hardened hearts and blinded eyes.

Romans 11:7-10
Paul discusses the hardening of Israel and the remnant chosen by grace, connecting to the theme of spiritual blindness and hardening.

2 Corinthians 3:14-16
Paul speaks about the veil over the hearts of the Israelites, which is removed in Christ, offering hope for spiritual sight and understanding.
Believers Shall not Abide in DarknessC. H. Spurgeon.John 12:37-50
Jesus and the JewsD. Thomas, D. D.John 12:37-50
Light for the World's DarknessH. Bonar, D. D.John 12:37-50
Love of Fame RebukedDr. Haven.John 12:37-50
No Welcome for ChristJohn 12:37-50
Our Lord's MinistryJ. Brown, D. D.John 12:37-50
The Conduct of the RulersA. Roberts, M. A.John 12:37-50
The Desire for AdmirationT. H. Leary, D. C. L.John 12:37-50
The Gospel not BelievedJ. Parsons.John 12:37-50
The Gospel ReportD. Thomas, D. D.John 12:37-50
The Loss of FaithJ. M. Lang, D. D.John 12:37-50
The Meanness of not Confessing ChristH. W. Beecher.John 12:37-50
The Peril of the Love of PraiseJohn 12:37-50
The Praise of MenT. H. Day.John 12:37-50
The Rejected MessageT. Whitelaw, D. D.John 12:37-50
The Rejected MessengerT. Whitelaw, D. D.John 12:37-50
The Supreme Value of that Honour Which Cometh from GodCongregational RemembrancerJohn 12:37-50
The Uses of PraiseH. W. Beecher.John 12:37-50
People
Andrew, Esaias, Isaiah, Jesus, Judas, Lazarus, Martha, Mary, Philip, Simon
Places
Bethany, Bethsaida, Galilee, Jerusalem, Zion
Topics
Blind, Blinded, Callous, Changed, Converted, Deadened, Fear, Hardened, Heal, Heart, Hearts, Lest, Minds, Perceive, Turn, Understand
Dictionary of Bible Themes
John 12:40

     5147   deafness
     6178   hardness of heart
     6195   impenitence, results
     8355   understanding

John 12:37-40

     7712   convincing
     8835   unbelief, nature of

John 12:37-41

     1445   revelation, responses
     2426   gospel, responses

John 12:37-43

     2369   Christ, responses to

John 12:39-40

     5135   blindness, spiritual

John 12:40-41

     2018   Christ, divinity

Library
Easter Day
Chester Cathedral. 1870. St John xii. 24, 25. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal." This is our Lord's own parable. In it He tells us that His death, His resurrection, His ascension, is a mystery which we may believe, not only because the Bible tells us of it, but because
Charles Kingsley—All Saints' Day and Other Sermons

December 28 Evening
We would see Jesus.--JOHN 12:21. O Lord, we have waited for thee; the desire of our soul is to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee. The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.--I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.--Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

September 8 Evening
Christ the firstfruits.--I COR. 15:23. Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.--If the firstfruit be holy the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches.--Now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.--If we have been planted together in the likeness of his death we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.--The Lord Jesus Christ . . . shall change our vile
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

September 22 Evening
O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.--MATT. 26:39. Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour. I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.--He . . . became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.--In the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

May 8 Morning
It pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief.--ISA. 53:10. Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour. Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.--Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him. Being found in
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

February 29 Morning
Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.--PROV. 27:1. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.--Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

June 12. "We Would See Jesus" (John xii. 21).
"We would see Jesus" (John xii. 21). Glory to Him for all the things laid up for us in the days to come. Glory to Him for all the visions of service in the future; the opportunities of doing good that are far away as well as close at hand. Our Saviour was able to despise the cross for the joy that was before Him. Let us look up to Him, and rise up to Him till we get on high and are able to look out from the mount of vision over all the land of far distances. There shall not a single thing come to
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

November 19. "We Would See Jesus" (John xii. 21).
"We would see Jesus" (John xii. 21). When any great blessing is awaiting us, the devil is sure to try and make it so disagreeable to us that we shall miss it. It is a good thing to know him as a liar, and remember, when he is trying to prejudice us strongly against any cause, that very likely the greatest blessing of our life lies there. Spurgeon once said that the best evidence that God was on our side is the devil's growl, and we are generally pretty safe in following a thing according to Satan's
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

May 8. "Except a Corn of Wheat Fall into the Ground and Die" (John xii. 24).
"Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die" (John xii. 24). Death and resurrection are the central ideas of nature and Christianity. We see them in the transformation of the chrysalis, in the buried seed bursting into the bud and blossom of the spring, in the transformation of the winding sheet of winter to the many tinted robes of spring. We see it all through the Bible in the symbol of circumcision, with its significance of death and life, in the passage of the Red Sea and the Jordan
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

April 14. "I if I be Lifted up from the Earth Will Draw all Men unto Me" (John xii. 32).
"I if I be lifted up from the earth will draw all men unto Me" (John xii. 32). A true and pure Christian life attracts the world. There are hundreds of men and women who find no inducements whatever in the lives of ordinary Christians to interest them in practical religion, but who are won at once by a true and victorious example. We believe that more men of the world step at a bound right into a life of entire consecration than into the intermediate state which is usually presented to them at the
Rev. A. B. Simpson—Days of Heaven Upon Earth

After Christ: with Christ
'If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also My servant be.'--John xii. 26. Our Lord was strangely moved by the apparently trivial incident of certain Greeks desiring to see Him. He recognised and hailed in them the first-fruits of the Gentiles. The Eastern sages at His cradle, and these representatives of Western culture within a few hours of the Cross, were alike prophets. So, in His answer to their request, our Lord passes beyond the immediate bearing of the request,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Universal Magnet
'I, if I be lifted up ... will draw all men unto Me.'--JOHN xii. 32. 'Never man spake like this Man,' said the wondering Temple officials who were sent to apprehend Jesus. There are many aspects of our Lord's teaching in which it strikes one as unique; but perhaps none is more singular than the boundless boldness of His assertions of His importance to the world. Just think of such sayings as these: 'I am the Light of the world'; 'I am the Bread of Life'; 'I am the Door'; 'A greater than Solomon is
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Son of Man
'... Who is this Son of Man?'--JOHN xii. 34. I have thought that a useful sermon may be devoted to the consideration of the remarkable name which our Lord gives to Himself--'the Son of Man.' And I have selected this instance of its occurrence, rather than any other, because it brings out a point which is too frequently overlooked, viz. that the name was an entirely strange and enigmatical one to the people who heard it. This question of utter bewilderment distinctly shows us that, and negatives,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Love's Prodigality Censured and vindicated
'Then Jesus, six days before the passover, came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom He raised from the dead. There they made Him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with Him. Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment. Then saith one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

A New Kind of King
'On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, took branches of palm-trees, and went forth to meet Him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord. And Jesus, when He had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written, Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass's colt. These things understood not His disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

A Parting Warning
'Jesus therefore said unto them, Yet a little while is the light among you. Walk while ye have the light, that darkness overtake you not: and he that walketh in the darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have the light, believe on the light, that ye may become sons of light.'--JOHN xii. 35,36 (R.V.). These are the last words of our Lord's public ministry. He afterwards spoke only to His followers in the sweet seclusion of the sympathetic home at Bethany, and amid the sanctities of the upper
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

The Praise of Men.
"They loved the praise of men more than the praise of God."--John xii. 43. This is spoken of the chief rulers of the Jews, who, though they believed in Christ's Divine mission, were afraid to confess Him, lest they should incur temporal loss and shame from the Pharisees. The censure passed by St. John on these persons is too often applicable to Christians at the present day; perhaps, indeed, there is no one among us who has not at some time or other fallen under it. We love the good opinion
John Henry Newman—Parochial and Plain Sermons, Vol. VII

The Saviour Lifted Up, and the Look of Faith.
"As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life."-John iii. 14, 15. "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. (This he said, signifying what death he should die.)"-John xii. 32, 33. IN order to make this subject plain, I will read the passage referred to-Num. xxi. 6-9. "And the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much
Charles G. Finney—Sermons on Gospel Themes

On the Words of the Gospel, John xii. 44, "He that Believeth on Me, Believeth not on Me, but on Him that Sent Me. " against A
1. What is it, Brethren, which we have heard the Lord saying, "He that believeth on Me, believeth not on Me, but on Him that sent Me"? [4174] It is good for us to believe on Christ, especially seeing that He hath also Himself expressly said this which ye have now heard, that is, that "He had come a Light into the world, and whosoever believeth on Him shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." [4175] Good then it is to believe on Christ; and a great evil it is not to believe on
Saint Augustine—sermons on selected lessons of the new testament

Christ Lifted Up
We have three things to notice. Christ crucified, Christ's glory. He calls it a lifting him up. Christ crucified, the minister's theme. It is the minister's business to lift Christ up in the gospel. Christ crucified, the heart's attraction. "I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me." His own glory--the minister's theme--the heart's attraction. I. I begin then: CHRIST'S CRUCIFIXION IS CHRIST'S GLORY. He uses the word "lifted up" to express the manner of his death. "I, if I be lifted up, will
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 3: 1857

Israel and Britain. A Note of Warning
Her rejection of the Lord Jesus is the more amazing because Isaiah gave so clear an account of the Messiah, and so clearly pictured Jesus of Nazareth. Descriptions of him could not have been more explicit than were the prophecies of Isaiah. It would be very easy to construct an entire life of Christ out of the book of Isaiah, beginning with "a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel," and ending with "he made his grave with the wicked and with the rich in his death."
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 31: 1885

Sermon for St. Stephen's Day
Of three grades of those who learn to die unto themselves, like corn of wheat, that they may bring forth fruit; or of those who are beginners, those who are advancing, and those who are perfect in a Divine life. John xii. 24.--"Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit." BY the corn of wheat we understand our Lord Jesus Christ, who by His death has brought forth much fruit for all men, if they are but willing not only to reign
Susannah Winkworth—The History and Life of the Reverend Doctor John Tauler

Answer to the Jewish Rabby's Letter.
WE Are now come to the letter of Mr. W's Jewish Rabby, whom Mr. W. calls his friend, and says his letter consists of calm and sedate reasoning, p. 55. I on the other hand can see no reason in it. But the reader than not need to rely upon my judgment. Therefore I will transcribe some parts of it, and then make some remarks. The argument of the letter is, that the story of Lazarus's being raised is an imposture; or else the Jews could not have been so wicked, as to be on that account provoked against
Nathaniel Lardner—A Vindication of Three of Our Blessed Saviour's Miracles

Our First Proposition Was, that There is Satisfactory Evidence that Many Pretending to be Original...
Our first proposition was, That there is satisfactory evidence that many pretending to be original witnesses of the Christian miracles, passed their lives in labours, dangers, and sufferings, voluntarily undertaken and undergone in attestation of the accounts which they delivered, and solely in consequence of their belief of the truth of those accounts; and that they also submitted, from the same motives, to new rules of conduct. Our second proposition, and which now remains to be treated of, is,
William Paley—Evidences of Christianity

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